Technique for selecting a service provider to service a vehicle

ABSTRACT

In a multimedia information and control system for use in an automobile, at least one interface is employed which enables a user to access information concerning the automobile and control vehicle functions in an efficient manner. The user may select one of a plurality of displayed options on a screen of such an interface. Through audio, video and/or text media, the user is provided with information concerning the selected option and the vehicle function corresponding thereto. Having been so informed, the user may activate the selected option to control the corresponding vehicle function.

This application is a division of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/848,391filed on May 3, 2001 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,577,928, which is acontinuation of U.S. application Ser. No. 09/355,433 accorded a filingdate of Jul. 27, 1999 now U.S. Pat. No. 6,282,464, which is a NationalStage of International Application No. PCT/US98/01119 filed on Jan. 5,1998, and which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No.08/789,934 filed on Jan. 28, 1997, maturing into U.S. Pat. No. 6,009,355issued on Dec. 28, 1999.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The invention relates generally to information and control systems and,more particularly, to a system for use in an automobile whichfacilitates a user's retrieval and/or dissemination of information, andcontrol of vehicle functions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Information is vital to day-to-day activities. With no access toinformation, people cannot function efficiently in this society, andtheir lives and financial well-being are put in jeopardy. People want tobe well-informed, so much so that when they are travelling inautomobiles, they tune into local radio stations to listen to news,weather forecasts and traffic conditions. For that matter, someautomobiles are equipped with audiovisual systems including television(TV) receivers. One such system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,404,443issued to Hirata. The Hirata system provides audiovisual information ina number of modes including a TV mode, which may be selected by controlswitches disposed on the periphery of a display.

Automobile users like to be continually updated with informationaffecting their travel plans such as weather and traffic conditionsbecause of its fast changing nature. Automobile users who are travelingalso like to continually keep in touch with their homes and offices, andto confirm appointments and hotel reservations so that they can adjusttheir itineraries accordingly. To that end, cellular mobile telephoneswere introduced to enable automobile users to conduct business andcontact their families while they are traveling.

In addition, local map information is important to automobile travelersmoving from one locale to another. As such, navigation systems weredeveloped to help reach their destinations in an unfamiliar milieu. Onesuch vehicle navigation system is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,274,560issued to LaRue. The disclosed system is based on artificialintelligence and provides a driver with directions via a voiceinterface. The system is built upon an optical disk player which can beused for entertainment as well. Digitized maps, compressed voice recordsand computer programs are stored on an optical disk compatible with thedisk player. After a destination point is identified, the disclosedsystem finds the best route from the digitized maps and guides thedriver therethrough via the voice interface, taking into account thelatest traffic conditions received by an FM receiver to avoidcongestion.

Recently, navigation systems based on military global positioning system(GPS) technology have emerged. One such navigation system iscommercially available as an option for the latest model of the ACURA3.5 RL automobile. This ACURA navigation system receives signals from aconstellation of satellites which is part of the GPS. In response tothese signals, the navigation system pinpoints the automobile's location(in latitude and longitude). It also detects the automobile's speed anddirection. With geographic information stored on a hard disk in anonboard computer, the navigation system is capable of verbally andvisually communicating to the user instructions for reaching thedestination.

In addition to the above techniques for communications with automobileusers, a technique for disseminating information regarding theautomobiles themselves is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,442,553 issued toParillo. The disclosed system is a vehicle diagnostic and softwareupgrade system. In this system, sensors are provided in the vehicle togenerate dynamic data relating to various mechanical controls and theengine of the vehicle, including engine R.P.M., fuel/air mixture,emissions and pollution content information. A microprocessor in thevehicle has access to selectable program parameters affecting thefunctioning of the mechanical controls. The microprocessor collects andtransmits the dynamic data to a remote diagnostic station periodicallyor upon its request. In response, the remote station sends, to thevehicle, signals indicative of any changes in its software and/orprogram parameters. The microprocessor accordingly causes the changes tobe made in the vehicle based on the received signals.

Besides the communication capabilities described above, an automobilehas many accessories and user control elements such as lights, wipers, aclock, temperature control, cruise control, seat adjustment control,mirror adjustment control, and an anti-theft system. A technique forcentralizing the command of the individual control elements is disclosedin U.S. Pat. No. 5,555,502 issued to Opel. The disclosed system includesa centralized control panel on a steering wheel which, together with adisplay, is utilized to control the electronic components of theautomobile. The display is positioned in the area of the driver's sunvisor. After the driver presses one of the buttons on the control panelcorresponding to a desired electronic component, a menu is displayed sothat the driver is able to select items from the menu to program thecomponent. The selection is accomplished by pressing specified buttonson the panel

In addition, a technique for controlling vehicle accessories via voicecommand is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,827,520 issued to Zeinstra. Inaccordance with this technique, control functions of each accessory areformatted in a summary page for display on a screen, which is scanned byinfrared light to sense any touching thereon. By uttering any of thedisplayed functions on the summary page, preceded by either a specifiedkeyword or an actuation of a push-to-talk switch on a steering wheel, amore detailed subpage of the selected function is displayed for furtherselection by voice. As an alternative to the voice command, theselection can also be accomplished by touching the displayed function onthe screen.

Voice command and touch screen techniques are frequently mentioned inprior art references in controlling car accessories. In particular, U.S.Pat. No. 5,214,707 issued to Fujimoto et al. discloses a system forvoice-controlling equipment inside a vehicle, including microphonescapable of discriminating voice commands as to whether they aregenerated at the driver side or at the assistant side of the vehicle ina noisy environment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

It is celebratory that technology advances at lightning speed. However,many people are left behind the technological frontier, and to someextent develop “technophobia”. Some of them have even given up thistechnological race, which is confirmed by the blinking “12:00” displayon the clocks of many video cassette recorders (VCRs) being used.

Similarly, it is fantastic that automobiles nowadays include manyadvanced accessories such as audiovisual systems, anti-theft systems,anti-lock brake systems, climate control, and cruise control whichembrace the latest technologies. However, of all these accessories, manyautomobile users only know how to operate the headlights and windshieldwipers, and regard the rest as nuisance. That is, the users pay fornumerous accessories which they do not use, resulting in much consumerwaste. We have recognized that such non-use is principally attributed toan inefficient distribution of operating knowledge of the automobileand, in particular, its accessories.

Specifically, when automobile users presently want to learn aboutcertain aspects of an automobile, they need to consult an owner's manualwhich could have been lost or misplaced when they need it the most. Inaddition, the manual is unpopular because many users simply want toavoid reading any written material, and find it intimidating as itoftentimes is filled with incomprehensible technical jargon.

We have further recognized that even with the operating knowledge, manyusers are overwhelmed and confused with the large number of knobs,switches and buttons used to control the individual vehicle parts andaccessories.

Accordingly, it is an object of the invention to design an informationand control system for use inside an automobile with the user in mind.The user is afforded a centralized control which may be used in lieu ofthe knobs, switches and buttons to operate the vehicle parts andaccessories. In accordance with the invention, the centralized controlis intimately tied to an information system such that the user is ableto efficiently access information about the functions and operations ofsuch parts and accessories, and in a synergistic manner apply thatinformation to operate same, using the centralized control.

It is another object of the invention that the access to the informationis intuitive and direct so that the user can obtain the relevantinformation in a few self-explanatory steps. To that end, the inventionembraces a multimedia approach where audio and video media are added tothe traditional text media to convey information. The additional mediaincreases the dimensions of both the user's comprehension of theinformation and the user's interaction with the automobile. Moreover,the information access is driven by a multilevel menu based on anintuitive model of taxonomy where information is organized in a minimalnumber of levels of subject matter from general to specific. The aboveintegration of the multimedia approach with the multilevel menu approachpresents an effective way of retrieving information in the automobile.Advantageously, with the invention, the user would not be distracted oroverburdened by irrelevant information in the course of an informationretrieval, which is conducive to a safe driving environment.

In the preferred embodiment, when the user wants to access informationabout a given part or accessory of the automobile, the user is presentedwith options on a display screen. Each option is associated with arespective one of different parts or accessories of the automobile. Theuser is able to select through the interface one of the options,associated with the given automobile part or accessory. The option whenselected is highlighted, for example, in yellow. A voice is thengenerated by the inventive system to explain the purpose or the contentof the selected option before the user commits to it. Having been soinformed, the user may then activate the selected option in retrievingthe information of interest. The retrieved information is presented tothe user in text, voice and/or graphics.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

Further objects, features and advantages of the invention will becomeapparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunctionwith the accompanying drawing showing an illustrative embodiment of theinvention, in which:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an automobile information and controlsystem in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 2 illustrates a control panel and a display interface for a user tointeract with the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates a flow chart depicting the steps of an anti-car-theftroutine used in the system of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 illustrates an arrangement of speakers in an automobile inaccordance with the invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B jointly illustrate a flow chart depicting the steps of aroutine for presenting various screens to the user in the systeminteraction;

FIG. 6 illustrates a screen for eliciting a personal identificationnumber (PIN) from the system user;

FIG. 7 illustrates a SELECT A FUNCTION screen including features thereofin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 8 illustrates an introduction screen including features thereof inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 9 illustrates a MANUFACTURER screen including features thereof inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 10 illustrates a SAFETY REMINDERS screen including features thereofin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 11 illustrates a THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES screen includingfeatures thereof in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates a QUICK TIP SET-UP screen including features thereofin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 13 illustrates a MAIN MENU screen including features thereof inaccordance with invention;

FIG. 14 illustrates a DRIVER'S VIEW screen including features thereof inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 15A illustrates an INSTRUMENT PANEL screen including featuresthereof in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 15B illustrates an association of an item with an optioncorresponding thereto on a second INSTRUMENT PANEL screen in accordancewith the invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS screen includingfeatures thereof in accordance with the invention;

FIG. 17 illustrates a segment of the screen of FIG. 16 providing theuser with information regarding a particular function of the automobile;

FIG. 18 illustrates a CLIMATE CONTROL screen including features thereofin accordance with the invention;

FIG. 19 illustrates a SAVE screen for saving the user's preferences inaccordance with the invention;

FIG. 20 illustrates a DATA ENTRY screen in accordance with the inventionfor looking up information regarding a specific item in the automobile;

FIG. 21 illustrates an INDEX screen with listed items for whichinformation is available; and

FIG. 22 is a look-up table listing searchable items and thecorresponding instructions for a processor in the system of FIG. 1 toprovide information regarding such items.

Throughout this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, like elements,components and sections in the figures are denoted by the same numerals.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 illustrates information and control system 100 embodying theprinciples of the invention for use in an automobile. System 100 isreferred to as the “AUTO DIRECTOR” system. It is user-friendly anddesigned with the automobile user in mind. For example, with AUTODIRECTOR display interface 102 a to be described, information about theautomobile is readily available literally at the fingertips of the user.This information includes operational instructions, maintenanceprocedures, safety measures, and information about virtually everycapability of the automobile. In accordance with the invention, the useris able to efficiently access such information using multimedia meansinvolving audio, text and video media. Also with interface 102 a, ormultifunction display interface 102 b to be described, the user isafforded a centralized control whereby he/she can program or adjustdifferent vehicle parts and accessories using the information thusobtained.

As shown in FIG. 1, central to system 100 is processor 105 connected tomemory 115. Data bus 107 connects processor 105 to display interfaces102, input interfaces 104, communications interfaces 106, output controlinterfaces 108, vehicle computer interfaces 110, vehicle controlinterfaces 112, self-test interface 114, preferences interface 116, andaudio interface 118.

Display interfaces 102 include, inter alia, AUTO DIRECTOR displayinterface 102 a, which is illustrated in FIG. 2, together with controlpanel 205 in FIG. 1. By way of example, but not limitation, the hardwareof interface 102 a and control panel 205 are derived from a prior artnavigation system of the type of the ACURA navigation system. In fact,interface 102 a and control panel 205 are used in this illustrativeembodiment to realize not only AUTO DIRECTOR functions to be described,but also the well-known navigation function.

Interface 102 a includes a conventional liquid crystal display screen209, and LCD driver (not shown) for processor 105 to control the displayon screen 209. Interface 102 a also incorporates well-known touch-screencircuitry (not shown) connected to touch screen interface 104 a inFIG. 1. With this circuitry, the user can interact with processor 105by, say, touching a displayed option on screen 209. Through interface104 a, processor 105 receives from the touch screen circuitry a signalidentifying the location on screen 209 where it has been touched. Ifsuch a location matches the predetermined location of one of thedisplayed options, processor 105 determines that that option has beenselected. With such touch-screen and displayed option selectioncapabilities, through AUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a, the user is able toobtain information on and control selectable functions of the automobilesuch as the instrument panel, navigation function, mobile phone,radio/CD player, locks, mirrors, windows, driver's seat adjustmentcontrol, climate control, windshield wipers, cruise control, lights,security function, steering, ride control, engine and transmission.

Control panel 205 comprises CANCEL switch 205 a, ENTER switch 205 b,BRIGHTNESS switch 205 c, PUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d, MENU switch 205 e,MAP/GUIDE switch 205 f, SETUP switch 205 g, ZOOM IN switch 205 h andZOOM OUT switch 205 i. BRIGHTNESS switch 205 c comprises a standardvariable resistor such that when it is pushed one way, operatingcircuitry 121 responsively causes the display intensity to increase, andthe other way to decrease. ZOOM IN switch 205 h when pressed enables theautomobile user to enlarge a particular visual area of interest onscreen 209, affording better details. On the other hand, ZOOM OUT switch205 i when pressed performs the inverse function to switch 205 h. As analternative to the touch-screen capability, switch 205 d similar to astandard joystick is provided for the user to move from one displayedoption to another on screen 209 in the same direction (e.g., up, down,left or right) as the switch is operated. A desired option may beselected by pressing ENTER switch 205 b. The functions of the otherswitches are described hereinbelow as they are called out in theoperation of system 100. In this illustrative embodiment, AUTO DIRECTORdisplay interface 102 a and control panel 205 are mounted close to thecenter of the dashboard of the automobile next to the steering wheel.

Referring back to FIG. 1, display interfaces 102 also includemultifunction display interface 102 b, center console display interface102 c, rear console display interface 102 d, and instrument paneldisplay interface 102 e.

Specifically, multifunction display interface 102 b is installed on thedashboard close to interface 102 a on the driver side. Like interface102 a, interface 102 b provides the user with graphic display andcontrol of selected functions using well-known touch screen technology.In fact, interface 102 b duplicates certain control functions (e.g.,navigation, phone, radio and climate control) of interface 102 a so thatthe user can use interface 102 b to control a selected function whileinterface 102 a is engaged in another ongoing function. For example,while the user is relying on AUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a to providenavigation information to reach a given destination, the user may wantto adjust the climate control of the automobile. It is inconvenient forthe user to terminate the ongoing navigation mode of interface 102 a,albeit temporarily, to access the climate control function through theinterface, adjust the climate control and then resume the navigationmode. Thus, it is preferable to leave the navigation mode of interface102 a alone and use interface 102 b to administer the climate control.

Center console interface 102 c is installed close to interface 102 a onthe passenger side. Similar to interface 102 b, interface 102 c providesthe front seat passenger with graphic display and control of functionswhich include: the front passenger seat adjustment, door lock, window,climate and TV controls. If enabled by the driver, control is alsoavailable for the radio/CD player and phone.

Rear console display interface 102 d is installed on the back of a frontseat. Similar to interface 102 c, interface 102 d provides rear seatpassengers with graphic display and control of certain functions ifenabled by driver or front seat passenger. These functions include: therear seat climate, windows, door locks, radio/CD player and TV controls.

Instrument panel display interface 102 e is installed on the dashboardin front of the driver seat. This interface provides the driver withgraphic display of the vehicle speed, engine RPM, outside and insidetemperatures, oil pressure, fuel level, time, odometer reading, tripodometer reading and warning light indicators. Through AUTO DIRECTORinterface 102 a, the system user may select the display of theinformation in either an analog or a digital form.

Input interfaces 104 comprise touch screen interface 104 a and controlpanel 205 described before, and voice command interface 104 b. Thelatter is connected to a microphone (not shown) and comprises standardvoice command circuitry (not shown) for processing voice commands by theuser through the microphone to control or modify selected functions ofsystem 100.

Communications interfaces 106 include phone interface 106 a, radio/CDinterface 106 b, television (TV) interface 106 c, navigation interface106 d, and beacon interface 106 e. Processor 105 interacts with andcontrols standard phone equipment connected to phone interface 106 a.Through processor 105, the user may operate the phone equipment viavoice command, thereby realizing hands-free operation of the equipment.Alternatively, the user may operate the phone equipment using the touchscreen capability provided by AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a ormultifunction display interface 102 b. The user may also operate thephone equipment via remote switches.

Similarly, processor 105 interacts with and controls one or more radioreceivers and CD players in the automobile connected to radio/CDinterface 106 b. Through processor 105, the user may operate the radioreceivers via voice command, remote switch and/or touch screencapability.

Processor 105 further interacts with and controls one or more TVreceivers in the automobile connected to TV interface 106 c. Again, theuser may operate the TV receivers via voice command, remote switchesand/or touch screen capability. It should be noted at this point that itis apparent to a person skilled in the art that wherever the touchscreen capability may be used to select or control various options orfunctions provided by system 100, the voice command is equallyapplicable. As such, without further repetition, the explicit mention ofuse of the voice command as an alternative to that of the touch screencapability in each instance is conveniently omitted in the ensuingdiscussion.

As further described hereinbelow, navigation interface 106 d isconnected to a standard inertial guidance system (not shown) capable ofproviding gyros information, and deriving the vehicle location based onGPS information. With the map information stored in memory 115, theinertial guidance system is capable of providing the user withnavigational instructions via interface 102 a or 102 b. Besides thelocational information, local and national emergency information may bederived from the GPS information using additional standard decodingcircuitry in interface 106 d.

Beacon interface 106 e is used for connection to a standard beacondevice for detecting a predetermined beacon radio signal to provideadditional locational information.

Output control interfaces 108 include lock interface 108 a, mirrorinterface 108 b, window interface 108 c, steering column interface 108d, seat interface 108 e, climate control interface 108 f, wiperinterface 108 g, cruise control interface 108 h, light interface 108 iand clock interface 108 j.

Specifically, lock interface 108 a comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to lock or unlock the car doors, glovebox, console storage, trunk (or liftgate), fuel filler door, brakes andtransmission, and enable or disable the child-proof door locks, fuelpump and ignition.

Mirror interface 108 b comprises output control logic controllable byprocessor 105 to maneuver the positions of the outside mirrors andinside rear view mirror, and to fold or unfold the outside mirrors.

Window interface 108 c comprises output control logic controllable byprocessor 105 to incrementally or completely open or close all windows,and to open, close or tilt any sunroof.

Steering column interface 108 d comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to move the steering column in or out andup or down.

Seat interface 108 e comprises output control logic controllable byprocessor 105 to (1) adjust the positions of the front seats forward oraft, and up or down; (2) tilt the front or rear of the seat cushion upor down; (3) adjust the seat back lumbar, width and angle forward oraft; (4) increase or decrease the cushion size and stiffness; (5) raiseor lower the head restraint; and (6) raise or lower the seat beltheight.

Climate control interface 108 f comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) turn the climate control system onor off; (2) select an air flow mode; (3) set fan speeds; (4) enable ordisable seat heaters; (5) select fresh or recirculated air (for driveronly); and (6) enable or disable front and rear defrosters, mirrors andsteering wheel heaters (for driver only).

Windshield wiper interface 108 g comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) select a high, low, intermittent,single wipe or off mode; (2) set an intermittent delay; and (3) enableor disable front or rear washers. Interface 108 g also includes controllogic for controlling rain- and speed-sensitive wipers, and foractivating an automatic wash in a single wide mode when the windshieldis at a certain level of opacity.

Cruise control interface 108 h comprises output control logiccontrollable by processor 105 to (1) turn the cruise control on or off,(2) set the vehicle speed, and (3) cancel or resume the set speed.

Light interface 108 i comprises output control logic controllable byprocessor 105 to select an automatic on mode or off mode for parkinglights, headlights and fog lights; and to turn on or off map or courtesylights.

Clock interface 108 j comprises output control logic controllable byprocessor 105 to set an initial date and time on a conventional clock(not shown) connected to interface 108 j. System 100 relies on thecurrent date and time kept by the clock to provide a time reference forthe system functions.

Vehicle computer interfaces 110 include anti-lock brake computerinterface 110 a, engine computer interface 110 b and supplementalrestraint computer interface 110 c for processor 105 to communicate withthe computers controlling the anti-lock brakes, engine and supplementalrestraints (e.g., back-up airbag deployers and seat belt tensioners),respectively. Interfaces 110 also include back-up interface 110 dthrough which processor 105 receives and analyzes signals from theengine, anti-lock brake and supplemental restraint computers. Thesesignals would indicate to processor 105 any failures of the computers.In response to a computer failure, processor 105 causes a correspondingback-up computer connected to interface 110 d to provide a back-upfunction.

Vehicle control interfaces 112 include steering interface 112 a, rideinterface 112 b, engine interface 112 c, transmission interface 112 d,traction control interface 112 e, and security interface 112 f.

Specifically, steering interface 112 a comprises input monitoring andoutput control logic for processor 105 to lighten or tighten thesteering effort ratio in response to changing road conditions. Throughinterface 102 a, the user may opt for manual or automatic steeringeffort ratio control. Interface 112 a is capable of adapting and storingdata according to the driver's inputs. It also allows for steering offront and/or rear wheels for sporty or increased stability.

Ride interface 112 b comprises input monitoring and output control logicfor processor 105 to lighten or stiffen the ride control to front and/orrear of vehicle in response to changing road conditions. Throughinterface 102 a, the user may also opt for manual or automatic ridecontrol.

Engine interface 112 c comprises input monitoring and output controllogic allowing for shutting off a specified number of cylinders, andvarying valve and cam timing to increase performance or fuel economy.This interface also allows for manual or automatic control of the enginecomponents, and includes the capability of adapting and storing dataaccording to the driver's inputs.

Transmission interface 112 d comprises input monitoring and outputcontrol logic for selecting manual or automatic shifting of thetransmission. In an automatic shifting mode, interface 112 d is capableof adapting and storing data according to the driver's inputs. Interface112 d also allows for control of a variable differential ratio for fastacceleration and high economy cruise.

Traction control interface 112 e comprises input monitoring and outputcontrol logic providing information on whether power is delivered tofront and/or rear wheels of the vehicle and what proportion of the poweris delivered to each wheel. This interface also allows for manual orautomatic control, and such functions as yaw control in cooperation withthe anti-lock brakes and an engine cylinder shutoff.

Security interface 112 f comprises control logic for setting a securitylevel, and enabling or disabling a number of security related functionssuch as the fuel supply cut-off, motion detector, brake locking, etc.Interface 112 f also allows entry of a new or alteration of an existingpersonal identification number (PIN) for personalization of the vehiclefunctions, i.e., saving the vehicle functional preferences.

In accordance with an aspect of the invention, system 100 incorporatesan anti-car-theft technique involving security interface 112 f. Inaccordance with this inventive technique, security interface 112 ffurther comprises a sensor for detection of a predetermined condition totrigger an anti-theft routine. It will be appreciated that a personskilled in the art will come up with many different triggering eventscausing the sensor to invoke the routine. For example, a passive way oftriggering the anti-theft routine would be after the sensor detects thatthe engine is off and the user has opened, closed and locked thedriver's door.

In any event, as soon as processor 105 receives from the sensor a signalrequesting an invocation of the anti-theft routine, processor 105retrieves from navigation interface 106 d GPS information identifyingthe parking location of the automobile, as indicated at step 251 in FIG.3. Processor 105 then stores at step 253 the parking location GPSinformation in memory 115. At step 255, processor 105 determines whetherthe security measures remain on. By way of example, but not limitation,such determination is based on information from lock interface 108 aindicating whether the driver's door is properly unlocked. If that dooris properly unlocked, processor 105 determines that the securitymeasures are called off, and the anti-theft routine comes to an end, asindicated at step 257.

Otherwise if processor 105 determines that the security measures remainon, processor 105 at step 259 retrieves from navigation interface 106 dGPS information identifying the current location of the automobile.Processor 105 then compares at step 261 the current location GPSinformation with the parking location GPS information previously stored.If processor 105 at step 262 determines that the current locationmatches the parking location based on the comparison, the anti-theftroutine returns to step 255 after a predetermined period. Otherwise ifprocessor 105 determines that the current location does not match theparking location, processor 105 assumes that the automobile has beenremoved without authorization, i.e., stolen. At this point, if aconventional alarm system is connected to security interface 112 f,processor 105 would cause an alarm to come on, gas to be cut off, etc.

In this example, a conventional transmitter (not shown) is connected tosecurity interface 112 f and transmits a predetermined sequence ofsignals receivable by a law enforcement agency or a suitable alarmmonitor company when it is activated. Continuing the example, processor105 translates the GPS information identifying the current vehiclelocation into the corresponding street address based on the mapinformation stored in memory 115, as indicated at step 263. Processor105 at step 265 looks up one or more phone numbers pre-stored in memory115 for reporting to the law enforcement agency (or the alarm monitorcompany) about the stolen status. Alternatively, a list of phone numbersassociated with law enforcement agencies (or branches of the alarmmonitor company) in many different geographic locations is pre-stored,along with the GPS information identifying the locations of therespective law enforcement agencies (or alarm monitor company branches).This being so, processor 105 locates the closest law enforcement agency(or alarm monitor company branch) and its associated phone number(s) bycomparing the current vehicle location GPS information with therespective agency (or branch) location GPS information.

In any event, processor 105 at step 267 initiates a call to a lawenforcement agency (or an alarm monitor company branch) through phoneinterface 106 a using the phone number just located. After the phoneconnection is established, processor 105 provides through the connectioninformation about the current address of the vehicle using conventionalvoice synthesizer circuitry (not shown) in audio interface 118, and thepre-recorded information about the vehicle itself such as its vehicleidentification number (VIN), model, year, color, license number, etc.,as indicated at step 269. Through the same phone connection, processor105 may also provide information about the vehicle's owner such ashis/her name and contact number so that the law enforcement agency (oralarm monitor company branch) can notify the owner of the incident.Processor 105 at step 271 activates the aforementioned transmitterconnected to security interface 112 f to generate the predeterminedsequence of signals in case the stolen vehicle is in transit. For thatmatter, processor 105 can also repeatedly check on the latest vehiclelocation and report any new address different from the one previouslyreported. Thus, by tracking the signals in the vicinity of the latestreported vehicle location, the law enforcement agency (or alarm monitorcompany) would recover the vehicle in an efficient manner.

In accordance with another aspect of the invention, after processor 105determines that the vehicle requires maintenance (e.g., based oncumulative RPM measures described below), relying on the GPS informationconcerning the current location of the vehicle and the GPS informationidentifying the locations of a predetermined list of service stations,processor 105 issues an alert to the user when it determines that thevehicle is currently within a predetermined distance from one of theservice stations so that the user can conveniently drive to that nearbyservice station to have the vehicle serviced. To that end, the GPSinformation concerning the service station locations is stored in memory115. After determining that the vehicle requires maintenance, processor105 from time to time compares the GPS information concerning thecurrent vehicle location with that concerning each service station inthe list, thereby identifying the closest service station currently tothe vehicle and the distance between them. If such a distance is withinthe predetermined distance, e.g., 5 miles, processor 105 causes amessage to be displayed on AUTO DIRECTOR interface 102 a and/or to beannounced through audio interface 118 described below, informing theuser about the closest service station. In addition, if interface 102 ais put in a navigation mode, the GPS information concerning such aservice station is used by the aforementioned inertial guidance systemto direct the user there.

Referring back to FIG. 1, self-test interface 114 comprises input/output(I/O) control logic for performing an active self-test of system 100 onpower up or at the user's request. Specifically, interface 114 pollsevery other interface in system 100 for a self-test result. Eachinterface, when polled, performs an active self-test and reports thetest results to interface 114, where such test results are gathered andcaused to be displayed on interface 102 a.

Preferences interface 116 monitors changes made by the user in selectedfunctions after the user logs on system 100, and prompts the user tosave such preferences. These preferences are stored in memory 115 inassociation with the user's PIN. Functions affording the user choicesinclude auto locks, an easy entry, auto lamps, the seat position,steering column position, mirror position, radio, steering, ride,transmission shift, engine performance, climate, and security level.

Audio interface 118 comprises I/O control logic for receiving audiosignals from a radio/CD, TV, compact disk (CD) player, or phoneinterface, processing the received audio signals, providing properamplifications thereto, and routing the resulting sound to appropriatespeakers and headphones (not shown) connected to interface 118.

In this illustrative embodiment, AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 aand multifunction display interface 102 b share the same speakers. Asillustrated in FIG. 4, these speakers are central speaker 289, frontleft speaker 291 a, front right speaker 291 b, rear left speaker 293 aand rear right speaker 293 b. Central speaker 289 is installed ondashboard 295 directly opposite driver seat 287 in the automobile. Inaddition, speakers 291 a and 291 b are installed on the inside of frontleft door 297 a and the inside of front right door 297 b, respectively.Speakers 293 a and 293 b are respectively installed in left and rightcorners of rear shelf 299 in the automobile.

Interface 118 also provides center and rear console display interfaces102 c and 102 d with separate audio channels, speakers and headphoneoutputs. The front and rear speakers may be muted by the user as apreference.

Interface 118 also processes requests from other interfaces forpre-recorded digital sounds stored in a SOUNDSGOOD library in memory 115and routes the requested sounds to the appropriate interfaces. Inaddition, interface 118 comprises the conventional voice synthesizercircuitry for providing voice messages to the appropriate interfaces.Moreover, in accordance with another aspect of the invention, the voicemessages and any accompanying digital sounds are routed to selected onesof speakers 289, 291 a, 291 b, 293 a and 293 b to effectively deliverthe messages to the user. For instance, if the messages are extremelyimportant, e.g., messages requiring actions to be taken immediately, tocapture the full attention of the user, such messages may be routed tocentral speaker 289 and thereby directed toward the face of the user. Ifthe messages are less important, e.g., advisories requiring actions tobe taken sometime but not immediately, such messages may be routed tofront speakers 291 a and 291 b. If the messages are still lessimportant, e.g., driving tips and other messages for information only,such messages may be routed to rear speakers 293 a and 293 b, renderingthe effect of background information.

FIGS. 5A and 5B jointly illustrate routine 300 for accessing, throughAUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a, a main menu to obtain operationalinstructions, maintenance procedures, safety measures, and otherinformation about the automobile, collectively referred to as “QuickTips”. Routine 300 is stored in memory 115 and initiated when SETUPswitch 205 g in FIG. 2 is pressed. Instructed by routine 300, processor105 at step 301 elicits a PIN from the user by displaying a screen ofFIG. 6 through interface 102 a. As shown in FIG. 6, a video key-padcomprising numeral keys “1” through “9”, and “*” and “#” keys aredisplayed on screen 209. In response, the user enters a sequence ofnumerals by touching the corresponding displayed keys, followed by the“#” key.

It should be pointed out that in accordance with another aspect of theinvention, when a displayed key or option is touched on the screen ofAUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a or multifunction display interface102 b, a tone pre-selected by the user from the SOUNDSGOOD library isgenerated through audio interface 118, indicating that the key or optionhas been touched on the screen. Advantageously, relying on the audiotone confirmation, as opposed to a visual confirmation, the user whiledriving can continually watch the road.

The user may alternatively enter the above numeral sequence usingcontrol panel 205 in a manner to be described. In any event, processor105 then verifies at step 303 the PIN entry by comparing it with theuser's pre-selected PIN. The latter is stored in memory 115, along withthe user's preferences. In a standard way, the user is given a fewchances to enter a correct PIN. Verification of the PIN entry identifiesthe user as a legitimate user. Thus, if the PIN entry is not valid,routine 300 comes to an end, as indicated at step 304.

Otherwise if the PIN entry is valid, processor 105 at step 305 causesinterface 102 a to display on screen 209 a “SELECT A FUNCTION” screen,which is illustrated in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 7, two options, namely,“NAVIGATION” and “QUICK TIPS”, are displayed on screen 209. By default,NAVIGATION option 401 is highlighted yellow when the screen of FIG. 7appears.

It should be pointed out that in this illustrative embodiment, a yellowhighlight on an option indicates that the option is selected but not yetactivated. Once a yellow highlighted option is activated, the option ishighlighted blue momentarily. System 100 then performs according to theactivated option.

Thus, in this instance, the user may activate the yellow highlightedNAVIGATION option by touching the option on screen 209 or by pressingENTER switch 205 b.

However, if QUICK TIPS option 403 is desired, the user may touch thatoption on screen 209, which would then be highlighted yellow. A secondtouch on the same option will change the highlight to blue, indicatingthe active status. As an alternative, the user may utilize knob 205 d ofFIG. 2 to select QUICK TIPS option 403 by first pushing the knob to theright. In response, processor 105 causes the yellow highlight to movefrom default NAVIGATION option 401 to QUICK TIPS option 403. The usercan then select the QUICK TIPS option by pressing ENTER switch 205 b.Upon selection, the yellow highlighted option will again turn blue.

Processor 105 at step 308 detects an activation of either NAVIGATIONoption 401 or QUICK TIPS option 403. If NAVIGATION option 401 isactivated, processor 105 at step 311 causes system 100 to enter into anavigation mode. In this mode, processor 105 causes navigationalinstructions to be displayed on screen 209 in a conventional manner. Inproviding the navigation instructions, the standard inertial guidancesystem connected to navigation interface 106 d receives signals from aconstellation of GPS satellites maintained and controlled by the U.S.Department of Defense. In response to these signals, the inertialguidance system identifies the location (in longitude and latitude) ofthe automobile. The system also detects the vehicle speed, and thedirection in which the vehicle is headed. By accessing the mapinformation stored in memory 115, the system is capable of visually andverbally providing the user with directions to a given destinationthrough AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a and audio interface 118,respectively.

Otherwise if activation of QUICK TIPS option 403 is detected at step308, processor 105 causes interface 102 a to display an introductionscreen on screen 209, as indicated at step 314. This introduction screenis illustrated in FIG. 8.

As shown in FIG. 8, system source identification, warning andinstructional information appear on the introduction screen, along withtwo options, “MAIN MENU” and “READ ME”. The default option in thisinstance is READ ME option 501 which is highlighted yellow. Processor105 detects at step 317 whether MAIN MENU option 503 or READ ME option501 is activated. If MAIN MENU option 503 is activated, routine 300proceeds to step 340 to be described. Otherwise if READ ME option 501 isactivated, routine 300 proceeds to step 320 where processor 105 causes aseries of three screens to be displayed. The first screen of the seriesis a “MANUFACTURER” screen, which is illustrated in FIG. 9.

As shown in FIG. 9, a description of the QUICK TIPS system appears onthe MANUFACTURER screen. If the text to be displayed exceeds one screen,which is the case here, scrolling options comprising scroll-up option605 and scroll-down option 607 are provided. When option 605 is touchedand activated on screen 209, additional text scrolls up one paragraph ata time. Option 607 performs an inverse function to option 605. Again, asan alternative, the user may maneuver PUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d untilthe desired scroll option (or direction arrow) is highlighted yellow.The activation of the highlighted option is achieved by pressing ENTERswitch 205 b.

By default, displayed option 609 has the “AUTO VOICE” wording thereonand is highlighted blue as the MANUFACTURER screen comes on.Accordingly, a pre-recorded voice is activated by processor 105 throughaudio interface 118 to read the entire text associated with this screenwithout interruption, including the text which is not presently shown onscreen 209 but otherwise shown upon scrolling. To alter the AUTO VOICEfunction, the user may touch option 609 on screen 209, or alternativelypress ENTER switch 205 b. By doing so, the “AUTO VOICE” wording onoption 609 changes to “MANUAL VOICE”, which is highlighted blue,indicating its active status.

In accordance with the MANUAL VOICE function, a pre-recorded voice readsthe displayed text only, and stops reading until additional text isscrolled onto the screen. To silence the voice, the user may again touchoption 609 on screen 209, or alternatively press ENTER switch 205 b. Bydoing so, the “MANUAL VOICE” wording on option 609 changes to “VOICEOFF”, and the voice is deactivated, with the option now highlightedyellow. The cycle of the AUTO VOICE, MANUAL VOICE and VOICE OFFfunctions can be repeated by successively touching option 609 orpressing switch 205 b.

Other displayed options on the screen of FIG. 9 include PREVIOUS option611 and NEXT option 613. As indicated at step 323, option 611 whenselected causes routine 300 to return to step 314, where theintroduction screen of FIG. 8 is again displayed. Otherwise, if option613 is selected, routine 300 proceeds to step 326 in FIG. 5B whereprocessor 105 causes a “SAFETY REMINDERS” screen to be displayed onscreen 209. FIG. 10 illustrates such a screen.

As shown in FIG. 10, like the MANUFACTURER screen, the SAFETY REMINDERSscreen includes option 609 displayed with the default wording “AUTOVOICE” thereon, PREVIOUS option 611, NEXT option 613, scroll-up option605 and scroll-down option 607. This screen reminds the user of thesafety features of the vehicle including, for example, air bags and seatbelts. As indicated at step 329, option 611 when selected causes routine300 to return to step 320 of FIG. 5A. Otherwise if option 613 isselected, routine 300 proceeds to step 332 where processor 105 causes a“THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES” screen to be displayed on LCD screen 209.FIG. 11 illustrates such a screen.

As shown in FIG. 11, the THEFT PROTECTION FEATURES screen similarly hasthereon displayed options 605, 607, 609, 611 and 613. This screendescribes to the user a theft-deterrent system including the anti-theftroutine of FIG. 3 equipped in the vehicle. As indicated at step 335,option 611 when selected causes routine 300 to return to step 326.Otherwise if option 613 is selected, routine 300 proceeds to step 338where processor 105 causes a “QUICK TIPS SET-UP” screen to be displayedon LCD screen 209. FIG. 12 illustrates such a screen.

As shown in FIG. 12, the QUICK TIPS SET-UP screen comprises two arraysof displayed options, denoted 901 and 903, respectively. Array 901concerns the volume of the audio part of system 100. In thisillustrative embodiment, the user may select the options in array 901 torespectively turn the volume off, to a “SOFT” level, to a medium level,and to a “LOUD” level. Array 903 concerns the display of LCD 119 ofsystem 100. In this illustrative embodiment, the user may select theoptions in array 903 to respectively turn the display off, adjust it toa “DAY” setting, adjust it to a “NIGHT” setting, and have itautomatically adjusted. When the QUICK TIPS SETUP screen comes on, bydefault, the volume is set to a medium level (i.e., the “MED” option inarray 901 highlighted blue), and the display is set to be automaticallyadjusted (i.e., the “AUTO” option in array 903 highlighted blue).

Also shown in FIG. 12 is NEXT option 905. By selecting this option,routine 300 returns to step 340 of FIG. 5A where a “MAIN MENU” screen isdisplayed on LCD screen 209. After routine 300 is performed, the screenof FIG. 12 can be invoked at any time by pressing SETUP switch 205 g tore-adjust the volume and the intensity of the LCD of system 100.

FIG. 13 illustrates the MAIN MENU screen. This screen comprisesdisplayed options disposed in columns 1001, 1003, 1005, and 1007. Forexample, column 1001 includes DRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a, STEERINGCOLUMN CONTROLS option 1001 b, LOCK option 1001 c, DRIVING TIPS option1001 d, and INDEX option 1001 e. It should also be noted that thisscreen can be invoked at any time by pressing MENU switch 205 e.

When the MAIN MENU screen comes on, by default, DRIVER'S VIEW option1001 a is highlighted yellow, indicating that it is selected. However,the user may touch any other displayed option on screen 209 forre-selection. A further touch on the yellow highlighted option changesits color to blue and activates same. Again, the user may alternativelymaneuver PUSH TO SELECT knob 205 d to re-select any other displayedoption, followed by a depression of ENTER switch 205 b to activate theselected option. Since LCD screen 209 is compact, the display area foreach option on the MAIN MENU screen is generally small. As a result,selection and activation of an option by touching the option on thescreen is susceptible to errors, especially when the vehicle is inmotion. Thus, in this situation it may be preferable to achieve the sameresult using knob 205 d and switch 205 b, instead.

In addition, because of the small display area allocated to each optionon the MAIN MENU screen, the wording on the option is brief and thustends to be cryptic. In accordance with a feature of the invention,after a predetermined time (e.g., a few seconds) has elapsed from theoption's being highlighted yellow, processor 105 causes a voice to begenerated on speakers 127 to explain the purpose of the option beforethe user activates it. For example, after a predetermined delay fromDRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a's being highlighted yellow, a voice isactivated, stating the option name, followed by an explanation of thepurpose of the option such as “To provide location of dash mountedcomponents.” Thus, this inventive feature affords a preview of theoption before the user commits to it, thereby avoiding unnecessarybacktracking.

Continuing the example, after hearing the preview of option 1001 a, theuser decides to select that option. In response, processor 105 causes a“DRIVER'S VIEW” screen to be displayed on screen 209. Such a screen isillustrated in FIG. 14. When the DRIVER'S VIEW screen appears, VOICEoption 1101 is highlighted blue, indicating that voice announcements areactive. To disable the voice announcements, the user may touch VOICEoption 1101 on screen 209, or alternatively press ENTER switch 205 b.VOICE option 1101 would be highlighted yellow when disabled.

As also shown in FIG. 14, a view of the interior of the automobile fromthe driver's perspective is provided. Underneath that view, DASH-MOUNTEDCONTROLS option 1103, INSTRUMENT PANEL option 1105, AUDIO SYSTEM option1107, CLIMATE CONTROLS option 1109 and PREVIOUS option 1111 aredisplayed. By default, DASH-MOUNTED CONTROLS option is highlightedyellow. However, the user in this example decides to select INSTRUMENTPANEL option 1105, instead. By touching option 1105 on screen 209, theoption is highlighted yellow. If VOICE option is not disabled, after apredetermined delay, an announcement such as “To provide information ongauges, meters and warning lights” comes on to preview the purpose orcontent of option 1105. Options 1103, 1107, and 1109 are similarlyprogrammed. In this instance, selecting PREVIOUS option 1111 enables theuser to return to the MAIN MENU screen of FIG. 13.

It should be noted at this point that if the user chooses to return tothe MAIN MENU screen, DRIVER'S VIEW option 1001 a previously activatedon that screen is highlighted in another distinctive color, e.g., grey,indicating its previous activation status. Advantageously, when the usersearches for particular information using the MAIN MENU screen, and theinformation is not found through certain options activated, theseoptions are now highlighted grey. Knowing those options highlighted greyhave been explored, which do not lead to the desired information, theuser would not re-activate them by mistake, thereby performing thesearch effectively. For that matter, in this illustrative embodiment,each option previously activated is highlighted in the above distinctivecolor, i.e., grey in this instance, indicating its previous activationstatus.

Continuing the above example, assuming that the user activates option1105 in FIG. 14 after hearing the aforementioned preview, in responseprocessor 105 causes an a “INSTRUMENT PANEL” screen to be displayed onscreen 209. Such a screen is illustrated in FIG. 15A. As shown in FIG.15A, the previous screen format is generally maintained in that itprovides a view of the object (the instrument panel of the automobile inthis instance) pertinent to the option which has been selected, alongwith displayed options for further selection thereunder. Based on thedisclosure heretofore, the design and operation of these screens by noware apparent to a person skilled in the art, and becomeself-explanatory.

In accordance with another feature of the invention, individual elementson the instrument panel shown in FIG. 15A are labeled with numerals “1”,“2”, “3”, “4” and “5” which correspond to option 1201 a designated “1.TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS”, option 1201 b designated “2. TURNSIGNAL/HAZARD WARNING”, option 1201 c designated “3. SPEEDOMETER ANDWARNING LIGHTS”, option 1201 e designated “4. ODOMETER & TRIPMETERS/OUTSIDE TEMPERATURE”, and option 1201 f designated “5. FUEL/TEMPGAUGE AND WARNING LIGHTS”, respectively. As such, the function of thedisplayed options is two-fold. First, the wording on each displayedoption informs the user of what the corresponding element(s) represents.Second, each displayed option is also for selection to obtain moreinformation about the corresponding element(s). In addition, with theabove voice preview feature, the user is further apprised of the purposeor content of the option before he/she commits to it. For example,TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS option 1201 a corresponds to a voicepreview such as “To provide information on tachometer and malfunction,maintenance required, low oil pressure and charging system failureindicators.”

It should be noted at this point that in an alternative embodiment, theassociation of the displayed options with the corresponding elements onthe instrument panel shown in FIG. 15A is not realized using numeralreferences, i.e., “1”, “2”, “3”, “4” and “5” described above. Rather, inaccordance with yet another aspect of the invention, as soon as one ofthe displayed options is selected (e.g., by touching the displayedoption) on screen 209 and thus highlighted yellow in this instance, thecorresponding element on the instrument panel is highlighted in the samecolor, thereby accomplishing the desired association without using anynumeral references. Conversely, knowing a particular element on theinstrument panel for which information is sought, the user selects(e.g., by touching) that particular element shown on the INSTRUMENTPANEL screen. Accordingly, the selected element on the screen ishighlighted yellow, and at the same time the corresponding option ishighlighted in the same color. The activation of the highlighted optionmay be achieved by, e.g., touching the highlighted option or thecorresponding highlighted element on screen 209.

FIG. 15B illustrates the INSTRUMENT PANEL screen in the alternativeembodiment. For example, as soon as SPEEDOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTSoption 1204 is selected and thus highlighted yellow (shown shaded),element 1206 depicting the corresponding speedometer and warning lightsis also highlighted yellow (also shown shaded), and vice versa. In fact,the association using the same highlight in accordance with theinvention applies throughout the screens, wherever appropriate, in thealternative embodiment, including the DRIVER'S VIEW screen describedabove.

Continuing the example in the present illustrative embodiment, assumingthat the user in this instance activates option 1201 a in FIG. 15A, inresponse processor 105 causes a “TACHOMETER AND WARNING LIGHTS” screento be displayed on screen 209. Such a screen is illustrated in FIG. 16.

FIG. 16 shows VOICE option 1301 similar to option 1101 described before,TIP option 1303, a tachometer of the automobile denoted 1305, warninglights collectively denoted 1307, and options 1309 a through 1309 f indisplay segment 1311.

When TIP option 1303 appears on screen 209, it indicates that helpfulhints or reminders are available upon selection thereof. In accordancewith another feature of the invention, the appearance of TIP option 1303is accompanied by the playing of a sound segment associated therewith.This sound segment may be pre-selected by the user from the SOUNDSGOODlibrary After an adaptation period, the user would be able to rely onthe familiar sound segment, without looking at the screen, to alerthim/her of the availability of the TIP option.

Similarly, the user may pre-select another sound segment associated withwarnings. Such a sound segment should connote urgency or even emergencyas such warnings include, for example, engine overheating, an extremelylow fuel level caution, GPS emergency information from navigationinterface 106 d, etc. Under control of processor 115, audio interface118 preempts any on-going announcement and momentarily substitutetherefor any such warning as soon as it occurs, which is preceded by theassociated sound segment. As mentioned before, such an emergencywarning, along with the associated sound segment, is communicated to theuser through central speaker 289 in FIG. 4, which is disposed directlyacross driver seat 295. As a result, the user is able to much appreciatethe emergency of the warning due to both of the direction from which thewarning is announced and the associated sound segment preceding it.

In any event, if option 1303 is selected in this instance, a voice comeson and utters a tip regarding tachometer 1305 such as “To prevent enginedamage, do not drive with needle in red zone.” This tip is alsomomentarily displayed on segment 1311 in lieu of options 1309 a through1309 f.

Similar to the elements on the INSTRUMENT PANEL screen, tachometer 1305and warning lights 1307 on this screen are individually labeled andcorrespond to options 1309 a, 1309 b, 1309 c, 1309 e and 1309 f,respectively. Assuming in this example that MAINTENANCE REQUIRED option1309 c is activated, display segment 1311 would be replaced by newdisplay segment 1411 illustrated in FIG. 17. As shown in FIG. 17, item1401 indicates the subject selected, i.e., “MAINTENANCE REQUIRED”. Item1403 explains what the MAINTENANCE REQUIRED warning light, when on,indicates. In this instance it states, “Maintenance required warninglight comes on to indicate it is time for scheduled maintenance.”PREVIOUS option 1405 enables the user to reactivate segment 1311 of FIG.16.

Assuming further that at this point the user wants to learn about andalso to program the air conditioning of the automobile, the user mayaccess a “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen by successively pressing the PREVIOUSoption to backtrack to the DRIVER'S VIEW screen of FIG. 14, whereCLIMATE CONTROLS option 1109 is available. As a second alternative, theuser may press MENU switch 205 e to invoke the MAIN MENU screen of FIG.13, where a “CLIMATE CONTROLS” option within column 1003 is available. Athird alternative is provided in the event that the user cannotimmediately relate “air conditioning” to the CLIMATE CONTROLS option. Atthe MAIN MENU screen of FIG. 13, the user may select Index option 1001 eto be described. It suffices to know for now that this option allows theuser to access the “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen using the term “airconditioning”.

FIG. 18 illustrates the “CLIMATE CONTROL” screen. As shown in FIG. 18,VOICE option 1501 whose function is similar to that of option 1101 or1301 described before is indicated in this instance using a pre-selectedicon, as opposed to the word “VOICE”. With the voice enabled, a firsttouch on any displayed option on screen 209 causes it to be highlightedyellow, indicating its selected status. A second touch causes it to behighlighted blue, indicating its active status. With the voice disabled,only one touch on any displayed option activates it.

Likewise, PREVIOUS option 1503 whose function is similar to that ofoption 1111 or 1309 d described before is indicated in this instanceusing a second pre-selected icon, as opposed to the word “PREVIOUS”.Advantageously, relying on icons instead of text describing the options,the user is able to select a desired option efficiently, especially whenhe/she is not proficient in a particular language (e.g., English in thisinstance) used in system 100. It will be appreciated that system 100,however, may provide different language versions of presentation, fromwhich a user may select a desired language version.

The MODE options in FIG. 18 include OFF option 1511, AUTO option 1513,A/C option 1515, HEAT option 1517, and SMART CLIMATE option 1519. Itshould be noted that only one of the MODE options can be active at atime. In this example, assuming that the voice is enabled, when OFFoption 1151 is selected by a first touch, a voice explaining the optioncomes on, uttering “To disable climate control.” A second touch on thesame option would then shut the climate control off through climatecontrol interface 108 f.

When AUTO option 1153 is selected by a first touch, a voice comes on toexplain the option, uttering “System automatically determines air-flowdistribution and volume for optimum efficiency.” A second touch on thesame option enables the automatic control, followed by a voiceutterance, “Set desired temperature.” Temperature display 1535 thenflashes with the current temperature setting, prompting the user to seta desired temperature in a manner to be described.

If the user neglects to set a temperature after a predetermined time, inaccordance with another aspect of the invention, a temperature range isautomatically maintained by processor 105 in response to the date andtime information from clock interface 108 j, and the GPS informationfrom navigation interface 106 d. Based on the date and time information,processor 105 knows what the current season (e.g., mid-winter versusmid-summer) and time of the day (e.g., night verse noon) are. Based onthe GPS information, processor 105 knows the region (e.g, New Englandversus Southern California) where the vehicle is. Processor 105 looks upa table stored in memory 115 containing predetermined temperature rangescorresponding to different combinations of the temporal and geographicparameters. It then prescribes an appropriate temperature rangeaccording to the table. This temperature range is updated by processor105 periodically to reflect changes in the time of the day and thegeographic location of the vehicle.

It should be noted that the actual realization of the temperature rangeas prescribed may depend on specific situations. For example, where thecurrent temperature inside the vehicle is below the prescribedtemperature range and sunlight is detected inside same, to conserveenergy, processor 105 causes heaters in the vehicle to heat the vehiclecompartment at a low rate, taking into account the sunlight shiningthrough the windows of the vehicle, which helps heat the compartment dueto the well known “greenhouse” effect. To that end, conventional devicessensitive to solar energy may be used to detect the presence andintensity of the sunlight inside the vehicle. Depending on the detectedintensity, processor 105 accordingly adjusts the heating rates of theheaters to efficiently achieve the prescribed temperature range. Ingeneral, the higher the intensity, the lower are the heating rates.

Similarly, A/C option 1515 and HEAT option 1517 respectively enable theuser to activate air conditioning and heaters at a desired temperatureor a default temperature range.

SMART CLIMATE option 1519 is designed to allow the user to program theclimate control for the next ride before he/she leaves the vehicle. WhenSMART CLIMATE option 1519 is selected by a first touch, a voice comes onto explain the option, uttering “To enable pre-heating or pre-cooling ofvehicle.” A second touch on the option activates the function, followedby a voice utterance, “Set desired temperature. Set desired time usingfan speed arrows.” Temperature display 1535 then flashes the currenttemperature setting, prompting the user to set a desired temperature.Similarly, fan speed display 1541 then flashes the current date,followed by current time, prompting the user to set the date and timethat the user plans to re-enter the vehicle. Through climate controlinterface 108 f, processor 105 determines whether the current level ofpower from the car battery and any back-up power sources is sufficient.If it is insufficient, a message such as “Fail to pre-condition vehicletemperature” is issued through audio interface 118 to notify the user ofthe noncompliance. Otherwise, when it is close to the re-entry time,processor 105 determines the start-up time to effect thepre-conditioning, depending on the temperature difference between theinside and outside of the vehicle at that time. Processor 105 would thencause a combination of heaters and/or heat pumps (not shown) connectedto interface 108 f to pre-condition the vehicle temperature. In order toavoid substantially draining the power, in this illustrative embodiment,the requested temperature would be maintained up to an hour after theset re-entry time.

The Air options in FIG. 18 include FRESH option 1521 and RECIRCULATEDoption 1523. Only one of these two options can be active at a time. WhenFRESH option 1521 is selected by a first touch on the option, a voicecomes on to explain the selected option, uttering “To select outside airto circulate in vehicle.” A second touch on the option activates theselection to ventilate the vehicle with outside air. Similarly,RECIRCULATED option 1523 allows the user to select the inside air forrecirculation in the vehicle.

The VENT options in FIG. 18 include FLOOR option 1525, FLOOR/DASH option1527, DASH option 1529, DEFROST option 1531 and FLOOR/DEFROST option1533. Only one of these five options can be active at a time. When FLOORoption 1525 is selected by a first touch on the option, a voice comes onexplaining the option, uttering “Main air distribution to floor.” Asecond touch on the option directs an air flow toward the vehicle floor.

Similarly, FLOOR/DASH option 1527 enables the user to bifurcate the airflow between the floor and the dashboard. DASH option 1529 enables theuser to direct the air flow from the dashboard. DEFROST option 1531enables the user to direct the air flow toward the windshield and selectfresh air if not selected. FLOOR/DEFROST option 1533 enables the user tobifurcate the air flow between the floor and windshield.

Temperature display 1535 displays the temperature selected by the userTouching on up-arrow 1537 increases the selected temperature whiletouching on down-arrow 1539 decreases same. Continued touching on eitherup-arrow 1537 or down-arrow 1539 causes the temperature setting tochange rapidly.

Similarly, fan speed display 1541 displays the fan speed (high, mediumor low) selected by the user. Touching on up-arrow 1543 increases theselected fan speed while touching down-arrow 1539 decreases same.

The HEATERS options in FIG. 18 include SEAT option 1547, MIRROR option1549, REAR WINDOW option 1551, STEERING WHEEL option 1553, and ALLoption 1554. One or more of these options can be active at the sametime. When SEAT option 1547 is selected by a first touch on the option,a voice comes on to explain the option, uttering “To enable seatheaters.” A second touch on the option activates the seat heatersconnected to climate control interface 108 f.

Similarly, MIRROR option 1549 enables the user to activate outsidemirror heaters. REAR WINDOW option 1551 enables the user to activate arear window defroster. STEERING WHEEL option 1553 enables the user toactivate a steering wheel heater. Finally, ALL option 1554 enables theuser to activate all of the heaters simultaneously.

In personalizing the vehicle, preference interface 116 monitors any useradjustments to certain vehicle functions by comparing their currentsettings with the corresponding stored preferences in memory 115. Thus,for example, if the user changes any of the settings relating to theclimate control such as the mode, vent, air, temperature, fan speed,etc. from its previous preferred setting, preference interface 116causes a SAVE screen to appear on screen 209. This SAVE screen isillustrated in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 19, the user is prompted tosave the change in the setting that he/she has just made. The user atthis point may activate SAVE option 1601 to change the previouspreferred setting. The SAVE screen thereafter disappears in favor of theprevious screen. Otherwise, he/she may activate CLOSE option 1603 toclose the SAVE screen, without storing the latest setting, which is thentreated as a temporary setting. In the latter case, for example, arestart of the automobile will obliterate such a temporary setting, andreinstate the stored preferred setting.

Climate control screens can similarly be invoked by the front passengerand rear passengers on display interfaces 102 c and 102 d, respectively.Such screens provide similar MODE options including OFF, AUTO, A/C andHEAT options; and VENT options including LOWER VENT, UPPER VENT andLOWER/UPPER vent options. They also provide for temperature and fanspeed adjustments for the respective localized areas. However, no savescreen is provided.

Using INDEX option 1001 e of FIG. 13 to look up information on and/or tocontrol various items in the automobile will now be described. Afteroption 1001 e is activated, a DATA ENTRY screen illustrated in FIG. 20is exhibited on screen 209. As shown in FIG. 20, a message “Enter LetterOr Item Name” appears to prompt the user for an entry of the name of theitem of interest or its beginning letter. For this purpose, entryoptions for letters A through Z arranged in a grid format are providedin section 1701 for selection. In addition, DONE option 1703, whenactivated, indicates to system 100 that the entry is completed.Subdisplay 1705 is used to echo the user's entry to ensure itscorrectness.

In this illustration, the user enters “AIR CONDITIONING” as exhibited onsubdisplay 1705. In response, an INDEX screen shown in FIG. 21 appearson display screen 209, with the search item name “AIR CONDITIONING”highlighted yellow. It should be noted that other item names such as“Anti-lock Brake System Indicator” are also shown, and they are inalphabetical order following “AIR CONDITIONING”. This stems from thedesign of system 100 whereby the user may conveniently enter thebeginning letter of the search item name only. In that case, a list ofitem names in alphabetical order with the first item name having thesame beginning letter highlighted yellow. For instance, if the user hadonly entered “A” for “AIR CONDITIONING”, a list of item names startingwith “A” in alphabetical order would appear on screen 209 (although inthis instance it would be the same list as shown in FIG. 21 as “AIRCONDITIONING” is the first item with a letter “A” in system 100). If theuser cannot locate the name of the item of interest in the list, he/shemay scroll the screen using scroll-up option 1801 or scroll-down option1803 to review additional item names after or before the listed itemnames. Alternatively, the user may select PREVIOUS option 1805 to returnto the screen of FIG. 20 to enter the complete item name.

In any event, after the user locates the item name on the INDEX screen,the user may then touch the item name to access information on thatitem. To that end, a look-up table is stored in memory 115. FIG. 22illustrates such a look-up table, wherein left column 1901 lists eachitem name in alphabetical order in the index, and right column 1903lists the corresponding instruction for processor 105 to carry out toaccess information on that item. For example, according to row 1905 ofthe table, the selection and activation of the item name “AIRCONDITIONING” causes processor 105 to connect the user to the CLIMATECONTROL screen of FIG. 18 previously described.

The foregoing merely illustrates the principles of the invention. Itwill thus be appreciated that those skilled in the art will be able todevise numerous other systems which embody the principles of theinvention and are thus within its spirit and scope.

For example, based on the disclosure heretofore, it is apparent thatthrough system 100, the user can run diagnostics on selected parts ofthe automobile by voice command or touch-screen control.

In addition, it will be appreciated that a windows based operatingsystem of the type of the MICROSOFT WINDOWS operating system isinstalled on system 100. Specifically, a copy of the operating systemsoftware is stored in memory 115. Utilizing such an operating system,processor 105 can be programmed to control display interfaces 102 topresent information through one or more windows on screen 209. Thus, inthat case, the user may activate two or more options from the MAIN MENUscreen of FIG. 13, e.g., the INSTRUMENT PANEL option and CLIMATECONTROLS option, one after another. Accordingly, in a well-known manner,processor 105 causes the corresponding screens, e.g., the INSTRUMENTPANEL screen of FIG. 15A and the CLIMATE CONTROL screen of FIG. 18, tobe displayed in respective windows on screen 209. Advantageously, withthe multiple windows, the user may efficiently control and retrieveinformation from the multiple displayed screens.

Moreover, with the above operating system, processor 105 is responsiveto signals generated by an indicator device used to point at and clickon a displayed option to select and activate same. For example, such anindicator device may be a mouse, joystick, stylus, trackball or touchpadwhich may be operable by hand or foot, and wired or wireless.

Further, in the disclosed embodiment, through system 100, the user isable to program the climate control for the next ride before he/sheleaves the vehicle. It will be appreciated that the user will be able toachieve same remotely ahead of time via telecommunication means. Forexample, processor 105 may be programmed to accept climate controlcommands through phone interface 106 a. In that instance, the user cancall from anywhere to establish a phone connection with phone interface106 a using a predetermined phone number, through which the usercommunicates the commands to climate control interface 108 f to programthe climate control. Through the phone connection, the user may beprovided with climate control options described above in a synthesizedvoice. The user may activate one or more of such options by pressing apredetermined touch-tone key on the telephone keypad corresponding to a“yes” or “no” response. Similarly, the user may achieve the relevanttemperature and/or time settings by pressing the touch-tone keyscorresponding to the numerals indicative thereof. Of course,telecommunication means other than the telephone including a radiofrequency (RF) transmitter may also be used to communicate the climatecontrol commands from a remote area.

In addition, in the disclosed embodiment, the user may access differentscreens provided by AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a to learn aboutand control certain vehicle functions. It will be appreciated that aperson skilled in the art will develop a demonstration program wherein aseries of such screens will be automatically presented to a user in apredetermined sequence. The presentation may include commentaries, andhighlights on selected options displayed on each screen. Furthermore,the presentation may be coupled with the showing of actual vehiclefunctions. For example, in demonstrating the climate control screen ofFIG. 18, while the function of a highlighted VENT option (e.g., Floor,Floor/Dash, Dash, Defrost or Floor/Defrost) is explained, it isactivated so that the user in the automobile can feel an actual air flowfrom the corresponding direction. The above demonstration program may beinvoked using a PIN provided by the automobile manufacturer. The programmay run continually while the automobile is shown in a showroom, or maybe invoked by the user occasionally to obtain relevant information.

Further, in the disclosed embodiment, the MAINTENANCE REQUIRED warninglight comes on when it is time for scheduled maintenance. In accordancewith another aspect of the invention, the maintenance is scheduled bysystem 100 according to the cumulative time of the tachometer readingabove a predetermined RPM value. Such cumulative time reflects theextent of the engine wear, and if it exceeds a predetermined length oftime without maintenance, the engine performance would degradesubstantially. In measuring the cumulative time in question, aconventional comparator (not shown) is employed in system 100 to comparethe instantaneous tachometer reading (provided by engine controlinterface 112 c) with the predetermined RPM value. Each time when thetachometer reading exceeds the predetermined value, processor 105 isinterrupted to register the length of such an occurrence. The latter isadded to a running sum to update the cumulative time in question. Thiscumulative time may be displayed on instrument panel display interface102 e, along with the tachometer reading and the MAINTENANCE REQUIREDwarning indicator. A second conventional comparator (not shown) isemployed in system 100 to compare the cumulative time with the abovepredetermined time length. As soon as the cumulative time exceeds thepredetermined length, processor 105 is interrupted and causes theMAINTENANCE REQUIRED warning light to come on, indicating that it istime for maintenance.

Still further, system 100 as described is highly adaptable in adjustingto new system requirements, and capable of “learning” new automobilefeatures to be introduced into the system. Such learning may involve amodification or an upgrade in the system software stored in memory 115.

Moreover, other features of system 100 may include capabilities ofcommunications with a third party remote from the vehicle. For example,system 100 may be programmed to transmit signals representing data onthe current speed of the vehicle and its VIN receivable by a radarsystem, thus enabling the third party to monitor its speed. Furthermore,system 100 may be programmed by the third party to disable andsubsequently enable the vehicle upon successful verification of a PINpre-assigned to the third party. To that end, system 100 is capable ofreceiving remote transmission of the PIN, followed by the disable orenable code. The transmission may be encrypted for security reasons.Furthermore, more than one PIN may be used for different purposes. Forexample, a PIN may be assigned to a law enforcement agency to disablethe vehicle because of a suspension of a license, or to temporarilydisable the vehicle when the driver is intoxicated. Another PIN may beassigned to an environmental protection agency to disable the vehiclefor failing to meet the emission requirements. Yet another PIN may beassigned to the vehicle owner to disable the vehicle when parked,thereby reducing the risk of a car theft. The disabling of the vehicleinvolves cutting off its gas, putting on its anti-lock brakes, etc.

Further, system 100 is capable of receiving a low-frequency, low-powerbroadcast covering an area of a limited radius, referred to as a “Cell”.The broadcast may provide electronic GPS map and Yellow Page typeinformation pertaining to the cell. This information, when received, maybe downloaded onto AUTO DIRECTOR display interface 102 a ormultifunction display interface 102 b. Such information includes a localdirectory indicating locations of nearby gas stations, restaurants andother facilities on the GPS map, with respect to the current location ofthe automobile. The local directory may be formatted in the form of “webpages” featuring the local businesses, and include additionalinformation such as business hours, telephone numbers, and informationon products and services provided by such businesses.

The above broadcast may also provide local weather information sponsoredby a civic group or commercial entity. In the case of civic groupsponsorship, the local civic events may be posted alongside the weatherinformation, and in the case of commercial sponsorship, advertisementsmay be posted instead. Of course, as the automobile moves from cell tocell, the contents of the broadcast change accordingly.

In addition, while the radio in the automobile is tuned to a particularradio station, system 100 is also capable of receiving any electronicfiles broadcast from that radio station, along with the radio program.These electronic files, which may be in the form of web pages, can bedownloaded onto the system. The system user may then scroll the pages tolearn such information as program listings and coming events sponsoredby the radio station.

Moreover, in the disclosed embodiment, system 100 is illustratively usedin an automobile. It will be appreciated that a person skilled in theart may also employ the inventive system in another type of vehicle suchas a boat, an airplane, etc.

Finally, although information and control system 100, as disclosed, isembodied in the form of various discrete functional blocks, the systemcould equally well be embodied in an arrangement in which the functionsof any one or more of those blocks or indeed, all of the functionsthereof, are realized, for example, by one or more appropriatelyprogrammed processors or devices.

1. A method for assisting a user of a vehicle comprising: determiningwhether the vehicle needs a maintenance service; obtaining dataconcerning locations of at least first and second service providers forproviding the maintenance service when it is determined that the vehicleneeds the maintenance service; obtaining data concerning a currentlocation of the vehicle; determining, of the at least first and secondservice providers, a closer service provider to the current location ofthe vehicle based on the data concerning the current location of thevehicle and the data concerning the locations of the at least first andsecond service providers; and selecting the closer service provider toprovide the maintenance service when the closer service provider iswithin a predetermined distance from the current location of thevehicle.
 2. The method of claim 1 further comprising communicating tothe user information about the selected service provider when theselected service provider is within the predetermined distance from thecurrent location of the vehicle.
 3. The method of claim 2 wherein theinformation is communicated via audio media.
 4. The method of claim 2wherein the information is communicated visually.
 5. The method of claim1 wherein data concerning a location of the selected service provider issupplied to a navigator for providing directions to reach the locationof the selected service provider.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein thedata concerning the locations of the at least first and second serviceproviders includes GPS data.
 7. The method of claim 1 wherein the dataconcerning the current location of the vehicle includes GPS data.
 8. Themethod of claim 1 wherein the selected service provider includes aservice station.
 9. A method for use in a system in a vehiclecomprising: storing data concerning locations of a plurality of serviceproviders; determining whether the vehicle needs a maintenance service;retrieving at least part of the data in response to a determination thatthe vehicle needs the maintenance service; comparing data concerning acurrent location of the vehicle with the retrieved data to identify oneof the plurality of service providers which is closest to the currentlocation of the vehicle and provides the maintenance service; andselecting the identified service provider to provide the maintenanceservice when the identified service provider is within a predetermineddistance from the current location of the vehicle.
 10. The method ofclaim 9 further comprising communicating information about the selectedservice provider when the selected service provider is within thepredetermined distance from the current location of the vehicle.
 11. Themethod of claim 10 wherein the information is communicated via audiomedia.
 12. The method of claim 10 wherein the information iscommunicated visually.
 13. The method of claim 9 wherein data concerninga location of the selected service provider is supplied to a navigatorfor providing directions to reach the location of the selected serviceprovider.
 14. The method of claim 9 wherein the retrieved data includesGPS data.
 15. The method of claim 9 wherein the data concerning thecurrent location of the vehicle includes GPS data.
 16. A system for usein a vehicle comprising: a memory for storing data concerning locationsof a plurality of service providers; a mechanism for determining whetherthe vehicle needs a maintenance service, at least part of the data beingretrieved from the memory in response to a determination that thevehicle needs the maintenance service; and a processor for comparingdata concerning a current location of the vehicle with the retrieveddata to identify one of the plurality of service providers which isclosest to the current location of the vehicle and provides themaintenance service, the identified service provider being selected toprovide the maintenance service when the identified service provider iswithin a predetermined distance from the current location of thevehicle.
 17. The system of claim 16 further comprising an interface forcommunicating information about the selected service provider when theselected service provider is within the predetermined distance from thecurrent location of the vehicle.
 18. The system of claim 17 wherein theinformation is communicated via audio media.
 19. The system of claim 17wherein the interface includes a display element, and the information isdisplayed on the display element.
 20. The system of claim 16 whereindata concerning a location of the selected service provider is suppliedto a navigator for providing directions to reach the location of theselected service provider.
 21. The system of claim 16 wherein theretrieved data includes GPS data.
 22. The system of claim 16 wherein thedata concerning the current location of the vehicle includes GPS data.23. The system of claim 16 wherein the selected service providerincludes a service station.